Meet Angie, the NCIS ENGAGE WhatsApp Bot Empowering Women At Risk of Hereditary Breast Cancer

The National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS) has partnered Singapore health tech AI startup Bot MD to launch an interactive artificial intelligence (AI) chatbot service on WhatsApp, named “Angie”, as part of the NCIS ENGAGE (ExpandiNG Access to Genetic counsEling) project.

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User-Friendly Interface

Angie aims to help transform the genetic counseling process for patients who are suspected of having a genetic predisposition or at high risk of Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer (HBOC) syndrome by making it easier for them to learn about the syndrome and the role of genetic testing prior their first genetic counseling at the clinic, and to complete their family medical history for risk assessment at their convenience.

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At present, patients at risk of HBOC are referred to the NCIS Cancer Genetics Clinic for a genetic counseling session to help them understand the pros and cons of genetic testing and discuss recommended preventive options with an expert.

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Prior to their visit, a genetic counsellor will conduct a routine call to collect the patient’s family medical history needed for risk assessment. This call can sometimes take up to an hour as it requires the patient to have all of their family’s cancer history on hand.

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During the initial counseling session, many patients may also feel overwhelmed by the amount of information provided and may not be able to make a decision to undergo genetic testing. Multiple consultations may be required, which is made more difficult by limitations due to the COVID-19 situation.

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Bite-Sized Modules

Angie helps to improve this patient experience by automating the collection of family medical history for risk assessment in the form of bite-sized modules delivered through WhatsApp.

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Patients can choose to complete their family medical history at their own convenience when they have the essential information on hand.

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Upon the completion of each module, the chatbot will send patients more information about HOBC, cancer genetic testing and the process of genetic counseling in the form of educational videos and infographics to help with the explanation.

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Patient Education

The chatbot has also been trained on frequently asked questions including topics such as the causes of genetic inheritance of HBOC, screening and risk reducing strategies, as well as the cost of genetic testing.

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In line with the increase of telemedicine services amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Angie will provide an avenue to support patients who have questions about HBOC and genetic testing. Members of the public who would like to learn more about HBOC can start their journey with Angie via the NCIS Cancer Genetics Clinic webpage.

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NCIS hopes to extend this chatbot service to other countries in Asia so as to help more patients who are at risk of HBOC to better understand and manage their condition.

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“Genetic testing is increasingly recognised as an important consideration in the management of breast cancer patients and family members who are suspected to have HOBC. However, there is still a significant lack of awareness and misconceptions among the public which needs to be addressed by genetic counselling. Angie the NCIS ENGAGE chatbot allows us to reach out to patients early, and provide targeted education so that they come for their consultation better informed and ready to decide on the next step.”

- Dr Samuel Ow
Consultant, Department of Haemotology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute

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